Smith and Wesson Model 34-1 .22lr Kit Gun - one of my unicorn guns! The ultimate .22lr revolver

Published on January 6, 2022
Duration: 10:50

This review covers the Smith & Wesson Model 34-1 .22 LR revolver, a 'kit gun' originally designed for backpackers. The presenter highlights its all-steel J-frame construction, 6-shot capacity, and historical significance as a transition from the I-frame. The example reviewed is a 1969 model, noted for its excellent condition and original box and paperwork.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Model 34-1 is a .22 Long Rifle revolver built on the J-frame platform, originally known as the '2232 kit gun.' Designed for portability and outdoor use, it transitioned from the I-frame around 1960-1961. This all-steel, 6-shot revolver is a sought-after collector's item, especially in excellent condition with its original box and paperwork.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the S&W Model 34-1 Kit Gun
  2. 00:09Original Box and Paperwork (1969)
  3. 00:17History: 2232 Kit Gun to Model 34
  4. 00:33Purpose of a Kit Gun
  5. 00:46Barrel Length Variations
  6. 00:58Presenter's New Acquisition: Model 34-1
  7. 01:13All-Steel Frame, J-Frame Platform
  8. 01:34Transition to J-Frame (circa 1961)
  9. 01:41Identifying the 1969 Model (No 'B' Prefix)
  10. 02:06Why This Specific Pistol?
  11. 02:20Peak Quality: 60s-80s S&W Revolvers
  12. 02:35Pinned Barrels (Until 1982)
  13. 02:44Quintessential Snub Nose in Media
  14. 02:52Missing Rear Sight Assembly
  15. 03:04Finding Replacement Sights on eBay
  16. 03:13Awe and Admiration for the Gun
  17. 03:20Initial Shooting Impressions (30 Rounds)
  18. 03:32Shooting Performance Without Rear Sights
  19. 03:42Perfect Balance for Learning
  20. 03:51Reliability and Concealability
  21. 04:05Year-Long Search for This Model
  22. 04:12Previous Near Misses
  23. 04:31Finding the Current Example
  24. 04:38Price Point and Market Comparison
  25. 04:44Original Box and Paperwork Included
  26. 04:48Acquisition Story: New Year's Eve
  27. 05:03First in Line at the Shop
  28. 05:08Initial Inspection and Love at First Sight
  29. 05:13Evidence of Being Unfired
  30. 05:43Cylinder Face Condition
  31. 05:52Forcing Cone Condition
  32. 06:02Cylinder Face and Frame Marks
  33. 06:09Bluing Condition
  34. 06:14Minor Muzzle Wear
  35. 06:23No Bluing Wear on Trigger Guard/Frame
  36. 06:31Small Rust Spot on Frame
  37. 06:35Initial State: Dusty, Not Heavily Used
  38. 06:45Original Box, Paperwork, and Toolkit
  39. 06:54Blown Away by the Find
  40. 06:56Multiple Other Buyers Interested
  41. 07:10Attempt to Negotiate Price (Missing Sight)
  42. 07:16Seller's Refusal to Lower Price
  43. 07:23Cost of Replacement Sight
  44. 07:26Value of Original Box and Paperwork
  45. 07:33Grips: Likely Factory, Slight Mismatch
  46. 07:48Phenomenal Action
  47. 07:50Shooting Footage Delayed (Camera Battery)
  48. 08:01Accuracy Without Rear Sights
  49. 08:14Sight Picture Compensation Strategy
  50. 08:30Long-Awaited Purchase
  51. 08:35J-Frame Snub Nose: Favorite Revolver
  52. 08:39Rarity of .22 LR in This Condition
  53. 08:48Affordability and Market Prices
  54. 09:00Paid Less Than Gunbroker Prices
  55. 09:06Model 34-1 Summary
  56. 09:10Speed Loader Availability (J22)
  57. 09:23Ammunition Versatility (.22 LR, Long, Short, Shot)
  58. 09:32Recommended Ammunition Diet
  59. 09:39Plated Lead Round Nose/Hollow Point
  60. 09:43Specific Ammunition Examples (Stingers, Mini Mags)
  61. 09:55Avoiding Dirty/Nasty Ammunition (Thunderbolt)
  62. 10:15Conclusion and Thanks
  63. 10:24Support 2A Rights

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Smith & Wesson Model 34-1?

The Smith & Wesson Model 34-1 is a .22 Long Rifle revolver built on the J-frame platform. Originally known as the '2232 kit gun,' it was designed for portability and outdoor use, transitioning from the I-frame to the J-frame around 1960-1961.

What makes the Smith & Wesson Model 34-1 a 'kit gun'?

The 'kit gun' designation means it was intended to be a compact, lightweight firearm that users could easily pack in a backpack or kit for outdoor activities like hiking. Its purpose was often for dispatching small game or pests encountered in the wilderness.

What are the key features of the Smith & Wesson Model 34-1?

This all-steel frame, 6-shot revolver typically features a short barrel (around 2 inches) and is built on the reliable J-frame platform. Examples from the 1960s and 70s, like the 1969 model reviewed, are noted for their high build quality and pinned barrels.

Is the Smith & Wesson Model 34-1 still in production?

No, the Smith & Wesson Model 34-1 is a discontinued model. While Smith & Wesson continues to produce J-frame revolvers, this specific variant, particularly in .22 LR and in excellent condition with original accessories, is a sought-after collector's item.

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